Parthenon: Rise of the Aegean (2005) Board Game

Parthenon: Rise of the Aegean is a board game that was released in in 2005. It is set in ancient Greece, where players take on the roles of city leaders competing to build the most prosperous city-state. The game combines elements of city building, trading, and mythology, making for an immersive gaming experience.

Game Components of Parthenon: Rise of the Aegean

Game Board: A 2-fold board depicting the Aegean Sea and neighboring lands.

Fleets: 18 cardboard pieces mounted in plastic stands, with three fleets per player in six different colors.

Reference Sheets: 6 sheets for quick rules reference.

Cards: 440 cards, including commodity cards, Aegis cards, philosophy cards, Great Wonder cards, event cards, hazard cards, and harbor status cards.

Archon Marker: One marker to indicate the current Archon.

Island Cards: Each player receives an island card and a build deck.

How To Setup Parthenon: Rise of the Aegean

To set up the game, each player chooses an island card and receives a build deck, three fleet counters, and two starting villages already constructed. The game board is surrounded by piles of commodity cards (grain, grapes, olives, ore, timber, wool, and gold), rare commodities (pottery, spices, tools, and papyrus), and various card decks (philosophy, Aegis, Wonder Plans, Hazard, Harbor Status, and Event cards). Each harbor on the board receives a random Harbor Status card. One player is randomly selected as the Archon, and four Year 1 event cards are placed face down near the board. Players then arrange their individual areas and the game is ready to begin.

Gameplay Mechanics and Game Objective

Game Duration: The game spans three years, each year consisting of four rounds, with each round divided into ten phases.

Phases:

Event Phase: Draw and resolve an event card.

Production Phase: Players receive commodity cards based on their built structures.

Island Trade Phase: Players trade commodity and Aegis cards.

Discard Phase: Players discard excess cards.

Archon Phase: Vote for the next Archon.

Objective: The first player to build all required structures on their island, including two Great Wonders, wins the game. Alternatively, the player with the most structures at the end of the third year is the winner.

Player Experience

Playing **Parthenon: Rise of the Aegean** is a rich and engaging experience, filled with strategic trading, perilous sea voyages, and the construction of grand monuments. Players must navigate the complexities of resource management, trading, and risk-taking to build up their Aegean island civilization. The game offers a deep and rewarding experience, with multiple paths to victory and a high level of replayability.

Pros

Deep Strategy: Offers a complex and engaging gameplay experience.

High Replayability: numerous cards and random events ensure different game outcomes each time.

Historical Setting: Immerses players in ancient Aegean commerce and civilization.

Award-Winning: Won “Board Game of the Year” at the 32nd annual Origins Award.

Cons

Complex Setup: Setting up the game can be time-consuming and overwhelming due to the large number of components.

Lengthy Game Time: Games can last up to 120 minutes, which may not be suitable for all players.

Color Differentiation: Some players may find it difficult to distinguish between certain fleet colors (e.g., red and brown).

Personal Thoughts on Parthenon: Rise of the Aegean

**Parthenon: Rise of the Aegean** is ideal for fans of complex trading and civilization-building games. It suits players who enjoy deep strategy, resource management, and historical settings. This game is not for casual gamers or those who prefer quick, light-hearted games. Instead, it is perfect for those who appreciate a challenging and immersive gaming experience. If you’re looking for a game that combines the elements of trading, exploration, and civilization-building, **Parthenon: Rise of the Aegean** is an excellent choice.

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